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Wednesday | July 5, 2023
All News

Many of CHELCO's power poles support more than just our electric lines. They often also carry telecom wires that bring services like cable and telephone to members’ homes. It is important to know the difference in order to properly diagnose safety issues.

On poles with both types of lines, electric wires are typically higher off the ground. They are attached to the pole with insulators that prevent electricity from burning the pole.

Cable and phone lines are lower on the pole and usually attach directly without insulators. These lines operate at much lower voltages, and can continue to function even if trees are growing into them or if they’re on the ground.

Telecom lines will sometimes be carried on their own poles, separate from poles carrying power lines. These poles are typically smaller than power poles, with no electric equipment like transformers or insulators attached. CHELCO-owned power line poles will have a CHELCO pole number attached to it.

While telecom lines are frequently attached to CHELCO’s poles, we do not operate or maintain them. Despite operating at lower voltages than power lines, these lines can still be dangerous, so stay at least 10 feet away if you see an issue.

If there is something wrong with the pole itself or the electric lines, please report the issue to CHELCO at 850-892-2111 or (800) 342-0990.

Downed power lines can carry an electric current strong enough to cause serious injury or death. If you see a downed line, call our emergency report line immediately: 800-342-0990. If telecom lines are the issue, contact the local phone or cable provider.

What's On That Pole

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©2023 Choctawhatchee Electric Cooperative (CHELCO). Powering our community, empowering our people!

  • About Us
    • About CHELCO
    • Careers
    • CHELCO NEWS
    • Contact CHELCO
    • Key personnel
    • Press Releases & Media Contact
      • CHELCO's annual charity golf tournament raised over $8k
      • CHELCO powers-up first co-op solar array in NW Florida
    • The Cooperative Difference
    • Trustees and elections
    • Annual Reports
    • CHELCO Bylaws
    • Recipes
  • Storm Center
  • Member Service
    • New Member Service
    • Capital Credits
    • CHELCO Rates
    • New Construction
    • Offices & Hours
    • Statement & Billing Options
    • Ways to Pay
  • Energy Efficiency
    • Energy Efficiency Programs
    • Renewables
    • Electric Vehicles
    • Outdoor & Decorative Lighting
    • Switch to Save
    • Surge Protection
    • Heat Pump Rebates
    • Energy Audits
    • Energy calculators
    • Together We Save
    • State and Federal Programs
    • Energy Efficiency Cost Benefit
    • Manufactured Home Rebates
    • Energy Savings - Beat the Peak
    • Optiwatt App
  • Education & Community Programs
    • Operation Round Up
    • Members Helping Members
    • Education Programs
    • Co-op Connections Discount Program
    • Scholarships
    • Youth Tour
    • Annual Meeting
    • Co-ops Vote
    • CHELCO Charity Golf Tournament
    • Economic Development
  • PURPA
    • Federal Statute
  • Podcast